Make The Time
Once upon a time, the beach was my religion – the sun, my God. All I wanted to do was swim and bake in the sun. Those days are long gone, but the memories remain. They were happy times indeed.
Rarely do I visit the beach anymore, preferring mountains and wilderness. I contribute this to a change in status. Once an extrovert, I now realize I am more of an ambivert, occasionally appreciating secluded areas to reflect and rejuvenate. Beach life, with its noise and constant interactions with people rarely allows for such things. Perhaps a balance of the two really is possible, but timing is everything (I guess timing was on my side this past week).
Strangely, I have visited the beach twice in the past two months. Because of the pandemic and cold weather, the beach, this time around, seemed like a logical choice for escape. I had to do little social distancing and mask wearing – the latter was a blessing. (I understand the world’s frustrations, but wearing a face mask is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Other important measures are practicing physical distancing and washing your hands frequently with soap and water or using hand sanitizer. Please continue to do your part to lower the rates of COVID-19 in your community. It really does take a village, my friends.)
My beach time was cathartic. Of late, much has been swirling in my head, much of this has to do with choices. There are a few to make and I am hopeful I’ll make the right ones (age and wisdom will see to that).
I found myself meditating with the ocean. Through visualization, the water and waves allowed for a much needed calmness, a stillness and peace I was looking for. It was just me, the water, and the gentle waves. It was nice. That lasted for two hours.
If you get anything from my ramblings, allow it to be this… On occasion the body and mind need a timeout. Some call it a mental health day, others – selfcare. It doesn’t matter what you call it. We all need an escape from time-to-time, from people and the familiar places and things that occupy our day-to-day living, and if you really listen, your body will let you know when it’s time to break away. (I am lucky, because mine always does.)
Don’t look for excuses, because there are none. Just stop! Go for a walk or run. Go to a different room in your home and shut the door. Lay on the floor, close your eyes and think of something happy or that has the potential of making you happy. Better yet, plan a day trip for one to the beach. Find a quiet spot and attempt a "little beach meditation".
The seashore is forever welcoming. With its cool breezes, salty air, crashing waves, seagulls and sand – all is a reminder of the beauty of nature and how healing to the mind, body and soul it can be, but only when we make the time. – paerki
